Storied French wheel manufacturer Mavic has been working in the lab for the past three years on a new wind cheating concept. Aerodynamics on the bike has become a trendy topic amongst cyclist recently, and for good reason. Aero is something that is on all the time, it benefits you during your entire ride, as opposed to lightweight, that may only really be noticed when going up hill. Mavic then, has come up with their new CX01 concept, it integrates tires to wheels, using a blade to cheat the wind into thinking the two are one. Thus, creating a surface that air can smoothly enter and exit a wheel without compromising the usual Mavic parameters of stiffness, radial rigidity, and ride quality. The first complete wheel system to come to market utilizing this technology are the Cosmic CXR 80 Tubular Wheelset.

The CXR 80 combines Mavic’s Yksion 23mm CXR Grip Link to the front wheel and the Power Link tubular tires to the rear. Both tires are made with specific rubber compounds that are tuned to their specific needs as front and rear tires. Incorporated into the casing and tread is a special aerodynamic shape to benefit the wheels smooth airflow. The gap between these tires and the 80mm deep rims is then covered up by the Mavic CX01 blades, a fairing of sorts that snaps into place over the ledge, and creates a seamless flow between tire and rim.

Weight on the wheelset is reportedly 2170g fror the pair with tires mounted. With the weight divided up, 995 grams for the front and the rear at 1175 grams. 16 spokes in the front and 20 in the rear. Available in both a Shimano/SRAM hub as well as a Campagnolo 9/10/11 compatible hub. Pricing on the system is $2800 for the pair – which includes the wheels, tires, blades, quick releases, tools and wheelbags. The Cosmic CXR 80 is available now at all Mavic dealers.

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Thien Dinh gained most his cycling knowledge the old fashioned way, by immersing himself in the sport. From 2007 to early 2013, Thien served as RoadBikeReview Site Manager, riding daily while putting various cycling products through its paces. A native of California, Thien also enjoys tinkering with photography and discovering new music.

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